2005 Holden Astra vs. 1974 Volvo 343
To start off, 2005 Holden Astra is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volvo 343. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volvo 343 would be higher. At 2,197 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Holden Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Holden Astra (145 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1974 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Holden Astra should accelerate faster than 1974 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Holden Astra weights approximately 447 kg more than 1974 Volvo 343. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Volvo 343 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1974 Volvo 343. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Holden Astra, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2005 Holden Astra (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volvo 343. (107 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Holden Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volvo 343. 1974 Volvo 343 has automatic transmission and 2005 Holden Astra has manual transmission. 2005 Holden Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 Volvo 343 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Holden Astra | 1974 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Holden | Volvo |
| Model | Astra | 343 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2197 cc | 1396 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 107 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 943 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2400 mm |
